Motorcycle Repair: Cleaning Alloy/Aluminium Engine Parts, scotchbrite pads, dishwashing detergent

Question
Hi Mark,

Sorry if you feel this question would be more suited to Bill/Chris.

I have recently acquired a Honda CB350K3 with a K4 engine.  It's been sitting in pieces under a garage untouched for nigh on 20 years, and so the engine is gunky and has slight rust in some places.

I was wondering what steps you recommend as the best way to clean up alloy engine parts to restore a nice shine.  There is such a glut of information out there on the net that it is hard to know where to start.

I am currently leaning toward:

1. Hand/Pressure wash with a dishwashing detergent such as Dawn, scrubbing with a plastic or wire brush to get off the obvious grit and grime.

2. Soak parts in kerosene overnight.

3. Rust remover on corroded areas.

4. Repeat wash with detergent, and more scrubbing.

5. Rub with Scotchbrite pads.

6. Rub on some WD-40.

7. Paint or polish? I'm not sure on this one, your recommendation on which technique to use and how you would go about it would be greatly appreciated.

Some of the references I have used:

http://www.team.net/sol/tech/clean_al.html
http://www.angelfire.com/mi3/hybrids/Beachbikes/summary.html
http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Downs/5896/SatinLook.htm
http://www.gmasw.com/bikecln_.htm

Any help/tips/links would be great!

Thanks,
Lachy
lballan@ugrad.unimelb.edu.au


Answer
Hi Lachy,

I think you've answered your own question. : )

In fact, if you don't mind, I'll make your question a "sticky"  or "tech file" for others to use.

The only other procedure I might mention is sand (media) blasting parts clean. This method works well, though depending upon the media used, may leave undesirable finish on some surfaces.

Very good intel, thanks.

Respectfully,
Mark Shively